This is not so much a reply to Matt as it is to the board in general.

Living in Portland, I have the great pleasure of jetting down to S.F. several times a year for fun and food. It is virtually impossible to find the great hotal bargains of the past (like in the early '90s). $129 (per room) now seems to be a bargain, but this deal is my all-time fave.

Three times a year the Golden Gateway Holiday Inn at Van Ness and California offers $49 or $59 (weekdays), $69 or $79 (weekends) prepaid coupons good for a night's stay during specific months. It is a perfectly fine place to stay. Coupons aren't refundable if you end up not going, but are totally transferable.

Call 415-441-4000 to be put on their mailing list. They will notify you by mail about a month before they advertise the promotion to the general public.

If you're not married to the idea of staying near Union Square/downtown this is a great spot. It's right at the end of the California cable car line. Of course, cable cars aren't the deal they once were - $2 each way with no transfers or return trips - but don't let that discourage you from taking them. The best transit deals in the city are the one-day ($5), three-day ($10) and seven-day ($15) passes. These give UNLIMITED rides on the Muni, trolleys, the BART along Market St. and ALL cable cars, and come with a list of museums and other attractions that give you $1 off. Buy them at the hotel gift shop.

Cheers,

Samantha

[This message has been edited by essxjay (edited 05-26-99).]

[This message has been edited by essxjay (edited 05-26-99).]